The Health Foundation of La Porte (HFL) has embarked on a new chapter with the announcement of Eric DeWald as its upcoming President and CEO.
Following an exhaustive nationwide search, the foundation’s board has identified DeWald as the ideal candidate to lead HFL into its next phase of growth and impact, commencing April 16, 2024. This appointment marks a significant transition as DeWald fills the role previously held by the organization’s inaugural CEO, Maria Fruth, who is stepping into retirement.
DeWald, with a storied career spanning over 20 years in leadership roles across various health-focused foundations, is recognized for his dedication to enhancing community health and welfare. His tenure at HealthPath Foundation of Ohio and the Community Giving Foundation has been characterized by strategic vision, fostering partnerships, and a commitment to improving lives.
Board chair Scott Siefker praised DeWald for his leadership qualities, noting, “Eric DeWald’s humility, empathy, and servant leadership are exactly what HFL needs to continue the remarkable progress made under Maria Fruth’s guidance.” Stephanie Oberlie, who led the CEO search committee, highlighted DeWald’s community-oriented approach and his ability to create meaningful collaborations, underscoring his fit with HFL’s long-term objectives, including a focus on housing and impact investing.
In expressing his enthusiasm for the role, DeWald remarked, “Joining HFL represents a culmination of my life’s work in health legacy foundations and community partnership. I am eager to leverage this experience to further enrich La Porte County’s thriving community.”
Maria Fruth warmly welcomed DeWald’s appointment, emphasizing his philanthropic expertise and collaborative spirit as key assets for the community’s future prosperity.
DeWald’s selection is the result of a meticulous process conducted by BoardWalk Consulting, which sought candidates with a proven track record of strategic leadership and community betterment. His leadership journey, beginning in rural Pennsylvania and stretching across various health foundations, showcases a blend of dedication and innovation poised to guide HFL toward new achievements in community health and well-being.
As DeWald prepares to lead HFL, his commitment to building on the foundation’s achievements and exploring new opportunities for impact reflects a promising future for La Porte County under his stewardship.
